WELCOME TO PROSPECT POINT SCHOOL!!

Welcome to the 2019-2020 school year! I am so happy to be joining Prospect Point as your Principal! I look forward to continuing to build relationships with students, staff and families. Prospect Point is committed to supporting our district vision of "Developing Washington's Most Sought-After Gradu- ates". Our staff looks forward to working with you and your student to achieve this goal.

In partnership with all WWPS schools and the district strategic plan (http://www.wwps.org/a-z/s-t/ strategic-plan), we will ensure all students receive high quality instruction in an aligned and coherent system while addressing their social and emotional needs in a safe and engaging environment.

Last year, we accomplished three major goals.

1. We promoted higher student engagement with a focus on improved attendance. 2. We promoted effective strategies for continuous school improvement by beginning to improve the culture of our school. At Prospect Point, we believe ALL students can learn at high levels. 3. We made priorities to achieve academic, emotional and social learning for all students.

This year, in addition to continuing our commitment to our district strategic plan, we will focus on the following three areas.

1. Continuing to implement school wide social and emotional behavior supports. 2. Implementing best practice strategies to improve academic success for all students. 3. Provide professional development opportunities for our staff so they continue to grow and excel as educators.

The success of your child and our belief that all children can learn will drive our decisions. We will continue to focus our efforts on creating a school environment that is positive and safe for all learners. We will communicate consistent expectations for students to help them make good decisions and max- imize their time directed toward learning. We will meet each student’s individual needs as a learner and member of our school community.

Your involvement in your child’s education is so important, and we value working along side you. Please share with your child the importance of school and successful work ethics such as being on time to school, working hard, doing your best, treating others with respect, and taking pride in your work.

Also, please join our PTA and volunteer at a level that best fits your schedule this year. We have amaz- ing events throughout the year that wouldn't be possible without our volunteers.

I am looking forward to watching your child grow and celebrating their accomplishments. I believe that your child is part of what makes our school so special, and together, we can help them to achieve their goals!

Best wishes for the 2019-2020 school year!

Barbara Casey Principal

SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT: At Prospect Point Elementary School, WE BELIEVE that every child is a life-long learner. Our mission is to ensure learning for all students.

Staff provide a learning environment which meets the needs of individual learners, raises stu- dent achievement and educates the whole child. Strategies include: 1) Ensuring all curriculum, assessment and instruction is tied to standards; 2) Engaging students with high quality instruc- tion, and 3) Meeting individual learning needs of all students and cultivating partnerships and relationships with parents.

PARENT ADVOCACY You are your child’s best advocate. Family involvement plays a critical role in preparing stu- dents to succeed in school and in life. Walla Walla Public Schools (WWPS) encourages all par- ents to be advocates for their children by providing them with a safe, nurturing home environ- ment; building strong, positive relationships with school staff members; and staying engaged in their children’s learning and development. You play a key role at every stage of your child’s development by:  Sharing information with your child’s teacher about his or her strengths, interests and goals.  Monitoring the development of your child’s literacy, language and social/emotional development.  Identifying resources to help your child develop mathematic competencies.  Staying involved and engaged both at home and at school.

Students with parents or guardians who are involved in their education, both at home and at school, earn higher grades, have fewer disciplinary problems, and enjoy better social adjust- ment. To help your child make sure he or she gets the most value from WWPS programs and resources, you can:  Attend events: Curriculum Nights, parent/teacher conferences, student performances, family programs, and other school-sponsored events.  Support and participate in your child’s school by joining the Parent/Teacher Association, mentoring, volunteering and/or serving on committees.  Communicate with your child’s school by checking in with your child’s teacher, parent/teacher conferences, parent liaisons, community liaisons, newsletters, and home visits.

Children are capable of amazing intellectual development during the first years of their life. Mainly, they learn by watching what their parents or guardians and siblings do. Almost any- thing your family does together is a learning opportunity for your child. Read a book to encour- age an interest in reading, and ask your child questions about the story. Discuss normal activi- ties, such as the day’s events, to increase his or her language skills. Advocate at home by:  Building Awareness (Create an interesting/stimulating environment; Introduce your child to new objects/people/events; Respond to your child’s interests and share experiences; Show interest/enthusiasm when talking with your child).  Encouraging Exploration (Encourage your child to explore different things; Extend play into a learning opportunity; Describe your child’s activities as he or she does them; Use open-ended questions, such as “What else could you do?”).  Ask and Answer Questions (Help your child think through questions and develop possible answers; Give your child information when asked; Help your child connect ideas; Allow time for your child to ask or answer a series of questions).

Parents and guardians have both responsibilities and rights. Their first responsibility is to develop a partnership with their children’s teachers and school, and participate in decisions about their children’s education. They are also responsible for making sure their children attend school and follow school system rules and policies.

School personnel are responsible for protecting children’s health and safety, and ensuring that they are treated fairly and not subject to discrimination. It is important for parents and guardians to share in- formation about their children and discuss their expectations and goals. As the parent advocate for an elementary age child you can:

 Make sure your child gets enough sleep at night (10-11 hours per night are recommended for elementary school-age children) and starts the day with a healthful breakfast. Children learn better when they are well-rested and well-fed.  Read and review information that comes home from the school—welcome letters, infor- mation packets, school calendars, newsletters, and handbooks.  Set clear rules for behavior at school and at home.  Limit television viewing and monitor what your child is exposed to through the use of electronic media (such as cell phones, the Internet, and video games).  Attend Curriculum Nights and goal setting conferences to find out what your child’s teachers expect from you and your child, and to learn about the curriculum.  Monitor your child’s progress and regularly check his or her agenda for homework and class assignments.

Feel free to call 527-3088, or e-mail staff (example: [email protected]) listed below to develop a joint strategy for your child’s educational success, and to learn about academic and support programs.

Principal Barbara Casey K/3 Intervention Tchr Heather Babbitt Kindergarten Darlene Greenwood Psychologist Kim Butenhoff Amy Heinzman Speech Megan Stadnik

Suzann Rose Audrey Schmid

Rebecca Wilson Intervention Spec. Ita Trejo First Grade Karen Hanson Head Secretary Gina Cox

Laura James Assistant Secretary Connie Goude Margaret McKeirnan ParaEducators Janice Baker Rachael Pederson Richard Bartlow Second Grade Wendy Baldwin Juanita Butler Heather Hudec Lindsey Dean Mark Paul Sherri Dotson Third Grade Michele Briones Christian Fuentes Denise Jausoro Michelle Gwinn Kami Kuhlmann Catherine Koehler Fourth Grade Debbie Smyth Ingrid Olsen-Young Leah Taylor Chantal Ramirez Karen Watson Cindy Ramirez Fifth Grade Lexie Mahan Theresa Shafer David Parodi Brandy Smestead Greg Pegel Amy Trejo Developmental K-1 Margaret Cochran Jennifer Warner Autism (RISE) Kelsie Loree Cook Manager Kathy Farmer Vocal Music Denise Hurst Cook Taren Hartzheim Physical Education Keith Reardon Assistant Cook Elizabeth Butler LAP Suzette Kennedy Head Custodian Valerie Vicari

ELL Amy Reed Custodian Jesus Alonso

Learning Specialist Julie Wiley Ass’t Custodian Jorge Abundis Resource Room Diane Wright Health Rm Assistant Stephanie Edwards Library Jeff Irland

DAILY SCHEDULE

Please Note: Adult supervision will begin at 7:30 am each day on the safe play- ground area. Students should not arrive on campus earlier than 7:30 am, whether they ride bicycles, walk, or are driven by parents.

7:30 am Breakfast begins (lunch tickets available for sale)

7:40 am Staff arrive on campus

8:00 am School begins

10:30 am Kindergarten Recess/Lunch

10:50 am First grade Recess/Lunch

11:10 am Third grade Recess/Lunch

11:15 am Fourth grade Recess/Lunch

11:30 am Fifth grade Recess/Lunch

11:35 am Second grade Recess/Lunch

2:40 pm School dismissal

3:10 pm Teachers leave

Staff Collaboration Wednesdays: Children will be released at 1:40 pm each Wednesday afternoon throughout the year to provide teachers with time for collaboration. School buses will operate one hour earlier than normal to accommodate this schedule.

CHANGE OF SCHEDULE Delayed Opening or School Closure due to Weather/Emergency: If school is delayed or closed due to poor weather, a recorded phone message from Walla Walla Public Schools will be launched to all district families by 6:00 am. Additionally, announcements are made on local radio and TV sta- tions beginning at 6:00 a.m. If no announcement is made by 6:30 a.m., you should assume schools are running on time. School closure notices will also be posted on the school district website (www.wwps.org) by 6:15 a.m. and be updated throughout the day as needed.

If schools are closed once classes are already in session, information will be announced over the local radio stations and be posted on the district website. Children who live within walking distance will be released to walk home. If no one is at home, please make alternative arrangements for your child. Buses will meet scheduled city and rural routes as soon as possible.

RADIO TELEVISION KONA 610 AM // 105.3 FM KEPR (CBS) Channel 2 KUJ 1420 AM // 99.1 FM KVEW (ABC) Channel 4 KZHR (Spanish) 92.5 FM KNDU (NBC) Channel 6 KFAE 89.1 FM KGTS 91.3 FM ONLINE KWHT 1240 AM // 103.5 FM www.wwps.org KLKY 97.9 FM For more information, contact KORD 87 AM // 102.7 FM Communications Director KALE 960 AM // 94.9 FM Mark Higgins, at 526-6717. KTEL 1490 AM KEYW 98.3 FM

ARRIVING AND LEAVING SCHOOL SAFELY

Bicycle Safety: Students in grades 3, 4, and 5 may ride bicycles to and from school. Because of the large number of bicycle riders near the school, the following guidelines were developed in the interest of safety. When children are found to be in violation of these safety guidelines, they may lose the privilege of riding their bicycles to school. WE RECOMMEND that 1) bicycles be parked in the designated area (located by the gym); 2) each bicycle be locked when left at school during the day; 3) a child know and follow the rules of the road before he/she attempts to ride to school, and 4) children riding their bicycles to and from school wear a bicycle safety helmet.

School Walking Route Map: The map on the previous page is intended to illustrate a recommended walking route for your child to use when walking to and from school. Even though your neighborhood may lack side- walks at this time, we feel this map will direct your child in using the available pedestrian facilities to obtain their maximum safety benefits. It is your responsibility as a parent to assist us in teaching your child his/her walking route to and from school. We suggest all parents familiarize themselves with the route recommended for their child; walk the route with them, answering any questions they may have concerning the map, pointing out such traffic control features as crossing guards, signals, etc., on their route to school.

Standard Safety Tips: • Where no walking area exists, walk on the left side of the roadway facing oncoming traffic to and from school (map only shows the “to school” route). • Before crossing any street, stop and look both ways for oncoming traffic. • Obey the instructions of your school patrol, and cross only after receiving direction from him/her. • When crossing at a traffic signal, be sure to press the pedestrian walk button if available and wait for signal indication and traffic to stop before entering street area. Flashing “DON’T WALK” means do not begin to walk; however, if you are already crossing the street, you may continue walking (do not run). After the “WALK” signal, there is adequate time to allow the average pedestrian to continue walking across the street before oncoming traffic receives a green light. • Cross at safe corners, even if you must walk farther. • Watch for turning cars. • Keep from between parked cars. • Refuse to ride with strangers. • Go directly from home to school (or from school to home) by the recommended route.

Traffic Safety: We recommend that you pick your children up after school inside the school parking lot loop. You may also choose to park your car and walk inside the school grounds to meet your child. As you park or as you move through the parking lot loop, please be aware of the many children riding bicycles and walking. Thank you for NOT driving your car into the bus loading zone on Howard Street during dismissal times. Boys and girls in the 5th grades are selected to serve as patrol monitors during the following designated times: 1) 7:35-8:00 am; 2) 2:40 pm, all classes dismissed. Please send your children at the designated times when patrol posts are covered at these locations: 1) Howard, Abbott and 2nd Street intersections; 2) Howard, Reser and Prospect Road intersections, and the 3) Mid-Crosswalk located in the school parking lot.

School Bus Rules: All elementary school students living one mile or more from school are eligible to ride the school bus. Prospect Point is served by more than six school bus routes as well as Valley Transit. Established routes pick up students in the morning, and return students after school. Bus route information can be viewed at the district’s Transportation website: http://www.wwps.org/departments/transportation/bus-route-schedules. Listed below are some of the important rules and regulations regarding student conduct while riding buses. • The driver is in full charge of the bus and students. Students must obey the driver promptly and willingly. • Students must leave the bus in an orderly manner. • No student will be permitted to leave the bus except at their regular stop unless they have written per - mission from school authorities or parents. A note should be given to the Office for a pass to be issued.

Ten Safety Tips for Riding the Bus: 1) be on time; 2) never run to or from the bus; 3) stand back from the curb; 4) don’t push or shove; 5) stay in your seat; 6) don’t yell or shout; 7) always obey the driver; 8) wait for the driver’s signal before crossing; 9) always cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus; and 10) never crawl un- der a school bus.

If you have busing questions, you may contact the school district’s Transportation Office at 527-3019.

Field Trips: During the school year, classes may take field trips that relate directly to the regular instructional program. Teachers will notify parents two weeks in advance of a field trip. Parent permission forms along with a trip itinerary will be sent home with students two weeks prior to the scheduled field trip. Schools cannot accept oral permission. All students must ride school-arranged transportation to and from the field trip destina- tion. For safety and insurance reasons, younger siblings may not accompany chaperoning parents on field trips.

Personal Property: Prospect Point does not assume responsibility for the personal property of students and does not purchase insurance for their property. Each school urges parents and students to carefully consider the type and value of property taken to school, especially items with monetary or sentimental value. Unidentified articles found in the school are placed in a designated location. This includes all electronic devices.

School Clothes: We expect students to come to school dressed in proper attire for school activities. Tennis shoes or shoes designed to provide support, fit securely, and prevent injury are necessary for physical education classes and active recess play in the elementary schools. Clothing should fit, be neat and clean. In addition, clothing must be consistent with conventional standards of modesty and decorum, free from words, slogans or pictures which advertise drugs, alcohol, or sex or which contain vulgar or offensive writing, racial slurs, sug- gestive pictures or emblems which may infer membership in gangs.

Inquiries and Complaints: Parents with complaints or concerns are encouraged to try to resolve the issue informally at their school starting with the teacher. If a parent is not satisfied that a complaint has been re- solved, the parent may request a meeting with the principal. The principal’s decision on a complaint may be appealed to the superintendent or designee following receipt of the principal’s decision. The parent should state precisely the reasons for the dissatisfaction with the principal’s decision and be limited to the matter under review.

Non-Custodial Parents: A non-custodial parent has the same rights as a custodial parent to review student records and other school information. After submitting a written request, the parent may review or receive copies of information to include: report cards, calendars, and notices of regularly scheduled conferences.

COMMON EXPECTATIONS

Goal Statement: To provide a safe and positive environment for students before and after school through the use of clearly defined rules, expectations, and staff supervision and interaction.

BEFORE SCHOOL RULES AND EXPECTATIONS 1. Our breakfast program and supervision of the morning playground will start at 7:30 am. Students that ride bicycles, walk, or are driven by parents should NOT arrive to school before 7:30 am. Students should be dropped off in the front parking lot by their parents. 2. As students arrive at school they should drop their backpacks off by their classroom door and go to their designated playground or breakfast. 3. Students are only allowed in the classroom before 7:55 am, if they have a note from their parent, teacher, or playground supervisor. 4. Students are expected to stay in the boundaries of the playground. 5. Students are expected to return play equipment to the basket when the bell rings at 7:55 am. 6. Appropriate and safe conduct is expected of students at all times.

GENERAL RULES AND EXPECTATIONS 1. Coats, backpacks, and instruments are to be stored in the student coat closets. 2. Students are to WALK inside the buildings. The only exception is in the gym during supervised activity periods. Whenever possible, traffic should be around rather than through the library and gymnasium. 3. Students are to play out of doors during recess periods. Supervised recesses will be inside during extreme weather conditions. Notification from a parent or guardian is requested when a student is not to be outside during recess periods. 4. Students leaving the school prior to the normal dismissal time are to sign out at the office. Those returning to school on that day are to report to the office upon their return. Parents or guardians are asked to meet students at the office at these times.

CAFETERIA RULES AND EXPECTATIONS 1. Students wishing to put money on their lunch account should do this before the 7:55 am bell. 2. Students should enter the cafeteria in a calm manner, and follow the hot lunch or cold lunch route. 3. Students waiting in the hot lunch line are to keep their hands off the stage curtain. 4. Students are expected to follow all staff members’ requests. If they are unable to, they may be asked to eat lunch in a different location. 5. Students in the hot lunch line should wait patiently, and be respectful to those around them. Students should be ready to scan when it is their turn. 6. Students should sit and eat their lunch and remain at the table until their lunch is finished. 7. Students should clean their area before leaving. 8. Students should exit the cafeteria in a calm manner. 9. Students are not allowed to take ANY food out of the cafeteria to the playground.

COMPUTER LAB EXPECTATIONS 1. All students will participate in Digital Citizenship training. 2. Students are only allowed to be in the computer lab when a staff member is present. 3. Students are expected to appropriately use technology and equipment at all times. If students violate these guidelines, they could lose their computer privileges. 4. Students are expected to follow staff members’ requests. 5. Students should push in their chairs, and hang up headphones before leaving the lab.

ASSEMBLY EXPECTATIONS 1. Students are to enter the gym in a calm, respectful manner (hats must be removed during assemblies). 2. Students will be seated as directed by their teacher (generally with their homeroom) and will listen while people are talking. 3. Students will cheer appropriately. 4. Students will exit the gym in an orderly way.

PLAYGROUND RULES AND EXPECTATIONS 1. Students are to play in designated playground areas. 2. Students are to walk on sidewalks. 3. First and second grade students are to use the path to and from the play area. 4. Only one child at a time is to be on a swing. Children are to ride in the seated position. 5. The following are NOT acceptable behaviors: a) sliding on ice; b) body contact activities, such as tackle football; c) using roller skates, roller blades, and skateboards from 7:30 - 3:30 pm; d) using baseballs and hardballs from 7:30 - 3:30 pm; e) snowballing or throwing ice, snow, rocks, or objects other than regular playground balls; f) walking or standing on the slide, chin bars, and horizontal bars; g) fighting or aggressive behavior. 6. No wall ball before school or after school in the inner court area. 7. No students are to play outside of the entrance to the cafeteria/gym. 8. Respectful and safe behavior is expected at all times.

PRIMARY (K-2) PLAYGROUND Boundaries: Play should occur by the playground equipment; NOT by the storage units or bus loading zone. 1. Wait at designated areas before entering or leaving playground. 2. All students are expected to go to their designated playground (except those with notes; see previous page). 3. Walk to playground on path. 4. Swings: stand back; hold swing for next person; no standing up; no jumping off; do not go in back of the swing; no underdogs; no climbing on swing support. 5. Dome: play on outside; no standing on top; climb on outside. 6. Large Tires: no pushing; play safely on the tires. 7. Slide: sit flat; face forward; one person on ladder at a time. 8. Students must ask for permission to go to the restroom; the gym restroom is the only authorized location during lunch recess. 9. No shoving or pushing. 10. If ball goes outside of playground area, do not go after ball — notify teacher. 11. Do not play on the Prospect Point School sign. 12. Notify the supervisor if there is a conflict that the student can’t resolve.

INTERMEDIATE (3-5) PLAYGROUND Boundaries: No one in alcove behind the library or by the cafeteria exit. The following are prohibited: tag games on the bars, camel rides, tackle football, slide tackle, closed games, fighting, throwing snowballs, and sliding on ice. 1. Swings: stand back; hold swing for next person; no standing up; no jumping off; do not go in back of the swing; no underdogs; no climbing on swing support. 2. Basketball Court: half court games if crowded. 3. Softball: line — stay behind backstops; no climbing the backstop. 4. Jump ropes are for jumping only. 5. Tossing or kicking ball games on the hill only. 6. Rainy Days: play under eaves; in classroom—SITTING, desk games; stay in homeroom area. 7. Retaining Wall: Students are not to sit or stand on the retaining wall bricks. 8. Notify the supervisor if there is a conflict that the student can’t resolve.

CONSEQUENCES: students misbehaving will be removed from play for a period of time, or for the whole recess. For serious infractions, students will talk with an administrator and discipline may be assigned.

AFTER SCHOOL RULES AND EXPECTATIONS 1. Students should calmly walk on the sidewalks to their designated area, and follow staff directions. 2. Students that ride the bus are to walk to the bus line, and stay in line until the bus comes. 3. Students that walk or ride their bikes are to leave campus using the gate on Howard Street. Students that ride their bike to school are to follow these safety guidelines. a. Bicycles need to be parked in the designated area (located by the gym). b. Each bicycle needs to be locked when left at school during the day. c. Each child needs to know and follow safety rules before he/she attempts to ride to school. d. Children riding their bicycles to and from school need to a wear bicycle safety helmet. 4. Students that are being picked up by their parents should calmly wait on the sidewalk in front of the bell. 5. Students attending after school programs should go directly to their location at dismissal. 6. Bikes, skateboards, or other wheeled items must be walked or carried at all times as soon as they are on campus.

We realize that even with clear expectations and systems in place to recognize positive behavior, students will make mistakes. At Prospect Point, we view these as teachable moments to review acceptable behavior.

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES Discipline procedures may be applied as determined by the principal and/or supervising staff. Teachers will make every effort to resolve problems by working directly with each child. When appropriate, parents will be consulted. Children will be counseled by the principal in the most severe cases. When it becomes necessary, a contact note will be sent to parents indicating the nature of the problem and the action taken. Following are ac- tions which may be taken to resolve problems: 1. Discuss the problem with the student. 2. Time-out periods may be assigned to appropriate school spaces. 3. Remove privileges. 4. Telephone the parent/guardian and/or send a note explaining the problem. 5. Arrange for a parent conference. 6. Assign special tasks to be carried out as directed by the principal. 7. Develop a contract with the student which stipulates behaviors to be improved. 8. Remove from participation in extra or special activities. 9. Removal from a class. 10. Suspension by the principal as specified in the district’s Students Rights and Responsibilities. 11. Refer for counseling. 12. Law enforcement officials will be notified in addition to school disciplinary action in matters dealing with drugs, alcohol, and criminal behavior.

CONSEQUENCES FOR INFRACTIONS When a student is not demonstrating appropriate behavior, staff will calmly and consistently implement the mildest consequence that is appropriate. 1. Staff might verbally remind the student of the expectation. 2. Staff might have the student choose a different activity or play area. 3. Staff might have the student sit out of the activity.

4. Staff might refer the student to the administration for disciplinary actions. Prospect Point discipline policy follows the direction given by the School Board in School District Policy 3200 (Student Rights and Responsibilities), and Policy 3207 that Prohibits Discrimination, Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying. The District is committed to a safe and civil educational environment for all students, employees, parents/legal guardians, volunteers, and patrons that is free from harassment, intimidation or bullying.

“Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any intentionally written message or image—including those that are electronically transmitted—verbal, or physical act, including but not limited to one shown to be moti- vated by race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, including gender expression or identity, mental or physical disability or other distinguishing characteristics, when an act: Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property; Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s educa- tion; Is so severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environ- ment; Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Reporting procedures are available by contacting the Teacher, Building Administrator, or the District Office. NO-BULLYING PROGRAM: To promote a safe and violence-free school environment for your child, we have implemented a “No-Bullying Program” at our school. The program consists of explicitly teaching our expectations for student behavior. Students in Kindergarten through Third Grades participate in Second Steps lessons that are designed to teach social/emotional skills, emotional management, and problem solving. Stu- dents in Fourth and Fifth Grades participate in Steps to Respect lessons designed to identify, report and pre- vent bullying. In addition, all students participate in the Zones of Regulation which teaches students about interacting and communicating in a positive way with each other. We have developed the following conse- quence plan should bullying behaviors occur: Possible Staff Interventions  Behavior addressed with promise not to repeat and/or apology — report filed and parents notified.  Behavior addressed with written promise and /or apology with loss of privilege — report filed and parents notified.

 Referral to Intervention Specialist for social and emotional training —teach bullying education and/or

establish behavior contract; behavior addressed with student and parent. Administration  Referral to Administration, 1-day suspension; report filed and parents notified by letter from admin.  Referral to Administration, 3-day suspension—report filed and parents notified by letter from admin. Five to 10-day suspension—report filed and parents notified by letter from administration.  Referral to Administration; report filed and parents notified by letter from administration. Recommendation of long-term suspension.

COMPREHENSIVE NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT - POLICIES 3205 AND 3210 The Walla Walla School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The Walla Walla School District will also take steps to assure that national origin persons who lack English language skills can participate in all education programs, services and activities. For information regarding translation services or transitional bilingual education programs, contact (509) 527-3000. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator Section 504/ADA Coordinator Title IX Coordinator Libby Thompson, Special Education Director Liz Campeau, Director of HR 364 S. Park Street 364 S. Park Street Walla Walla, WA 99362 Walla Walla, WA 99362 (509) 527-3000 (509) 527-3000 [email protected] [email protected]

You can report discrimination and discriminatory harassment to any school staff member or to the dis-

trict's Civil Rights Coordinator, listed on the previous page. You also have the right to file a complaint (see

below). For a copy of your district’s nondiscrimination policy and procedure, contact your school or district

office or view it online here: http://www.wwps.org/district/information/school-board/policies.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Students and staff are protected against sexual harassment by anyone in any school program or activity, in-

cluding on the school campus, on the school bus, or off-campus during a school-sponsored activity.

Sexual harassment is unwelcome behavior or communication that is sexual in nature when:

 A student or employee is led to believe that he or she must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or

communications in order to gain something in return, such as a grade, a promotion, a place on a

sports team, or any educational or employment decision, or

 The conduct substantially interferes with a student's educational performance, or creates an

intimidating or hostile educational or employment environment.

Examples of Sexual Harassment:  Pressuring a person for sexual favors  Unwelcome touching of a sexual nature  Writing graffiti of a sexual nature  Distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures  Making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks  Physical violence, including rape and sexual assault

You can report sexual harassment to any school staff member or to the district's Title IX Officer, who is listed on the previous page. You also have the right to file a complaint (see below). For a copy of your dis- trict’s sexual harassment policy and procedure, contact your school or district office, or view it online here: http://www.wwps.org/district/information/school-board/policies.

COMPLAINT OPTIONS: DISCRIMINATION AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT If you believe that you or your child have experienced unlawful discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment at school, you have the right to file a complaint.

Before filing a complaint, you can discuss your concerns with your child’s principal or with the school dis- trict’s Section 504 Coordinator, Title IX Officer, or Civil Rights Coordinator, who are listed on the previous page. This is often the fastest way to revolve your concerns.

Complaint to the School District

Step 1. Write Out Your Complaint In most cases, complaints must be filed within one year from the date of the incident or conduct that is the subject of the complaint. A complaint must be in writing. Be sure to describe the conduct or incident, explain why you believe discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment has taken place, and de- scribe what actions you believe the district should take to resolve the problem. Send your written complaint— by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery—to the district superintendent or civil rights compliance coordinator.

Step 2: School District Investigates Your Complaint Once the district receives your written complaint, the coordinator will give you a copy of the complaint proce- dure and make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The superintendent or designee will re- spond to you in writing within 30 calendar days—unless you agree on a different time period. If your com- plaint involves exceptional circumstances that demand a lengthier investigation, the district will notify you in writing to explain why staff need a time extension and the new date for their written response.

Step 3: School District Responds to Your Complaint In its written response, the district will include a summary of the results of the investigation, a determination of whether or not the district failed to comply with civil rights laws, notification that you can appeal this deter- mination, and any measures necessary to bring the district into compliance with civil rights laws. Corrective measures will be put into effect within 30 calendar days after this written response—unless you agree to a dif- ferent time period.

Appeal to the School District

If you disagree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal to the school district’s board of directors.

You must file a notice of appeal in writing to the secretary of the school board within 10 calendar days after

you received the school district’s response to your complaint. The school board will schedule a hearing within

20 calendar days after they received your appeal, unless you agree on a different timeline. The school board

will send you a written decision within 30 calendar days after the district received your notice of appeal. The

school board’s decision will include information about how to file a complaint with the Office of Superinten-

dent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

Complaint to OSPI

If you do not agree with the school district’s appeal decision, state law provides the option to file a formal

complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). This is a separate complaint process

that can take place if one of these two conditions has occurred: (1) you have completed the district’s complaint

and appeal process, or (2) the district has not followed the complaint and appeal process correctly.

You have 20 calendar days to file a complaint to OSPI from the day you received the decision on your appeal.

You can send your written complaint to the Equity and Civil Rights Office at OSPI: Email: [email protected] ǀ Fax: 360-664-2967 Mail or hand deliver: PO Box 47200, 600 Washington St. S.E., Olympia, WA 98504-7200

For more information, visit www.k12.wa.us/Equity/Complaints.aspx, or contact OSPI’s Equity and Civil Rights Office at 360-725-6162/TTY: 360-664-3631 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Other Discrimination Complaint Options Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education 206-607-1600 ǀ TDD: 1-800-877-8339 ǀ [email protected] ǀ www.ed.gov/ocr

Washington State Human Rights Commission 1-800-233-3247 ǀ TTY: 1-800-300-7525 ǀ www.hum.wa.gov

DIRECTORY INFORMATION POLICY (Policy 3233) Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, “directory information” may be released to anyone, including the media, colleges and universities, and the military for educational purposes. “Directory Infor- mation” includes: student’s name, address, age, birthplace, participation in officially recognized school events and programs, weight of athletic team members, awards, diplomas, photographs, and student work—both print and electronic, such as school publications, and web sites.

REQUEST TO PREVENT DISCLOSURE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION: To prevent release of this information, you must inform Walla Walla Public Schools by using the “Request to Prevent Disclosure of Di- rectory Information” form (available online: www.wwps.org or at all school offices).

Under the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, 20 U.S.C. § 9528, the military is entitled to request the names, telephone numbers and addresses of students unless the parent, guardian or eligible student requests that such information not be provided. You have the right under the above laws to choose whether your student’s infor- mation is released or not. Parents and eligible students considering withholding disclosure of directory infor- mation should evaluate the consequences of such a decision carefully.

The request to prevent disclosure of directory information will be honored for the current school year unless specifically revoked in writing. Continuing students must complete a new non-disclosure form each school year. Submission of this form will not affect directory information already published or released.

PRESENT, ABSENT, OR TARDY?

Walla Walla Public Schools believes, and research has shown, that students who regularly attend school have the most academic success. Parents and school staff can work together to encourage students to participate fully in the school program by being present; arriving on time; and being connected, committed and engaged in the learning process.

WWPS encourages family trips during scheduled school vacations and strongly discourages such trips during the school year because these extended absences interrupt the continuity of learning. Parents should coordi- nate with their child’s teacher to secure homework for the trip to ensure their child does not fall behind. If your child is going to be either absent from school or late for any reason, please call the school secretary by 9:00 am, or leave a message at the school number, 527-3088. TRUANCY GUIDELINES

EXCUSED ABSENCES A student’s lack of attendance can affect academic, social and emotional growth. WWPS will excuse a stu- dent’s tardiness or absence due to:

 Illness of the student (a physician’s note may be required in cases of chronic or long-term illness)  Death in the family  Medical appointment  Observance of a religious holiday

1. If a student has 10 excused absences, a letter from the school will be sent home. 2. If a student has 15 excused absences, a letter from the school will be sent home. In addition, an attendance contract may be developed and/or a conference with the principal or designee will be held. Furthermore, a doctor’s note may be required. 3. If a student has 20 excused absences, a letter from the Truancy Officer will be sent home. In addition, the attendance contract will be reevaluated and/or a conference with the principal or designee will be held. Furthermore, a doctor’s note may be required. 4. If a child is open enrolled and has poor attendance, the child’s open-enrolled status may be in jeopardy.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES (Becca Procedures) 1. If a student has one (1) unexcused absence in a month, the school will contact the parents. 2. If a student has three (3) unexcused absences in a month, the school will send a Principal’s letter, and the principal or designee may make a program adjustment or determine other corrective action. 3. If a student has five (5) unexcused absences in a month, the school will request a Superintendent’s letter be sent. In addition, a parent conference may be held with the principal or designee, an attendance con- tract may be developed and signed by the parent/guardian, student and school representative, and the stu- dent may be referred to the Community Truancy Board. 4. If a student has seven (7) unexcused absences in a month or ten (10) unexcused absences in a year, a peti- tion may be filed in Superior Court. 5. A month consists of any 30 days of continuous enrollment, not a calendar month.

TARDIES Tardiness also affects academic progress. Excessive tardies will be dealt with by elementary schools as follows:

1. The school day is divided into a four-period day with each period lasting approximately 1-1/2 hours. If students arrive to school after the school day has started and prior to 45 minutes after school started, they will be considered tardy. Students who miss more than half of a period will be considered absent for that period (excused or unexcused according to district attendance guidelines). For every one and a half hours of missed school that a student accumulates to tardies, a half day absence (or more) may be assigned.